After the sacking of Lawrence, May 1856

Obscured Landmarks

Revealing the hidden history of Lawrence, Kansas.

Discover the stories behind Lawrence’s landmarks—both the well-known and the overlooked—with the "Obscured Landmarks" tours. Join us for a walking tour on Wednesday evening, April 23, or a bus tour on Saturday afternoon, April 26. These tours will explore sites connected to Lawrence’s rich history as a hub of Kansas’s abolitionist movement and its enduring commitment to justice.

Presented by the Hall Center for the Humanities at the University of Kansas, in collaboration with The Commons, the Spencer Museum of Art, and the Lawrence Public Library, this experience brings together scholars, artists, storytellers, and more to uncover cultural and historical insights. Both tours are free and open to the public, but space is limited.  

“These tours invite you to see Lawrence in a new light and reflect on its past as a guide for a more thoughtful future,” says Giselle Anatol, Director of the Hall Center for the Humanities.

Part of the "Being Human Festival US," running April 14–28, "Obscured Landmarks" is one of 16 community events across the country supported by the National Humanities Center. This festival celebrates the humanities’ ability to deepen our understanding of ourselves, connect us to each other, and shed light on today’s world.

Reserve your spot 

The starting times, beginning locations, and a form for reserving your place on the tours will be provided on this page as they become available.

 

Accommodations

  • Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend Hall Center sponsored events. If you require a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in any of our events, please contact Program Coordinator Eliott Reeder at eliottor@ku.edu.